Florida bridge collapse kills four
Search-and-rescue efforts to continue, though parts of structure are unstable
MIAMI— The Miami-Dade County fire chief says four people have been found dead in the rubble of a collapsed pedestrian bridge in South Florida.
Fire Chief Dave Downey said at a news briefing Thursday evening that four deceased people had been found at the scene by first responders. He also says nine victims were removed “early on” and taken to hospitals. But he did not elaborate on their conditions. He says “search and rescue mode” is continuing after nightfall.
A pedestrian bridge that was under construction collapsed onto a busy Miami highway Thursday, crushing at least eight vehicles under massive slabs of concrete and steel, authorities said.
Gov. Rick Scott also spoke to reporters, saying “everybody is working hard to make sure we rescue anyone who can be rescued.” The Florida governor adds that an investigation will get to the bottom of “why this happened and what happened.” He adds that if anyone had done anything wrong, “we will hold them accountable.” Search-and-rescue crews drilled holes into the debris and used dogs to look for survivors. They had to work carefully because part of the structure was still unsafe. At least 10 people were taken to hospitals.
The 950-ton bridge had been assembled by the side of the highway and moved into place Saturday to great fanfare.
The span stretched almost 60 metres to connect Florida International University with the city of Sweetwater. It was ex- pected to open to foot traffic next year.
“We have a national tragedy on our hands,” Sweetwater Mayor Orlando Lopez said.
Miami-Dade Police Director Juan Perez said his department’s homicide team would take over the investigation after rescue efforts are complete.